Erasmus+ BIP

Active Sport Tourism (UNICA)

Active Sport Tourism through Science, Experience, and Territory

 

More than a conference.
USSIC is a year-round ecosystem where sport science meets education, applied practice, and the unique Sardinian territory.

As part of this vision, the Unica Sport Science International Conference (USSIC) highlights selected international educational initiatives that enrich the scientific, cultural, and experiential context of the Conference. The Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) “Active Sport Tourism”, hosted by the University of Cagliari, is a Pre-USSIC Educational Event dedicated to active sport tourism, integrating sport science, safety, sustainability, and experiential outdoor activities in Sardinia.

Key Information

  • Title: BIP UNICA – Active Sport Tourism

  • Location: Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy

  • Dates: 13–24 April 2026

  • Format: Blended Intensive Programme (Virtual component + Physical mobility)

  • ECTS: 5

  • Main Languages: English / Italian

  • Target Participants: Undergraduate and Master students (places are limited)

Programme Overview

The Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) “Active Sport Tourism” is designed to provide participants with an integrated and multidisciplinary learning experience that combines evidence-based theoretical sessions with applied field activities in real natural contexts. The programme explores active sport tourism as a strategic domain at the intersection of sport science, health promotion, sustainability, and territorial development.

A central focus of the BIP is the role of physical activity in natural environments—both blue and green spaces—as a powerful driver of health, well-being, and quality of life, as well as a key resource for sustainable and inclusive tourism models. Through lectures, case studies, and experiential learning, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of how outdoor physical activities can be designed, managed, and promoted within sport tourism destinations.

Particular attention is given to safety, risk management, and governance in outdoor sports, emphasizing the importance of scientific evidence, appropriate planning, and professional competencies when operating in natural environments. Topics such as environmental conditions, participant profiling, risk assessment, and preventive strategies are addressed to ensure safe and responsible practice.

The programme also highlights the translation of elite and high-performance sport models into the context of active sport tourism, demonstrating how excellence, innovation, and evidence-based approaches can enhance tourism experiences and destination attractiveness. By integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on activities, the BIP fosters critical thinking, applied skills, and interdisciplinary perspectives, preparing participants to operate effectively in the evolving field of active sport tourism.

Virtual Component (13–14 April 2026)

The virtual mobility phase includes online seminars aimed at providing scientific, methodological, and managerial foundations for active sport tourism:

  • Innovation in sport tourism development: managing safety and sport activities in natural environments

  • Scientific evidence in outdoor sports

  • Feeding during outdoor sports

  • From elite sport to active sports tourism: high-performance models as drivers of excellence

  • Governance and public–private strategies in successful sport tourism destinations

Physical Mobility (20–24 April 2026)

The in-person component takes place in Cagliari and its natural surroundings, offering supervised practical activities and experiential learning:

  • Free Climbing (principles, risks, and practice)

  • Orienteering (principles, risks, and practice)

  • Kayak (principles, risks, and practice)

  • Sailing (principles, risks, and practice)

  • Final test and discussion on Active Sport Tourism

The programme is complemented by educational excursions to:

  • Molentargius Natural Park

  • Cagliari historic city centre and museums

  • Sella del Diavolo natural area

How to Apply

Candidates must apply through their Home University International Relations Office for an Erasmus short mobility grant.
Once Erasmus's financial eligibility is confirmed, candidates must send an email expressing their interest and institutional nomination to the International Relations Office - ISMOKA of the University of Cagliari.

 

Contact: unicabip@unica.it

 

Places are limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis following institutional nomination.

Accommodation in Cagliari

The University of Cagliari has a Guesthouse where students can stay during their time in Cagliari.

Students who want to book a room can e-mail foresteria@unica.it with:

  • the attached application form;
  • a copy of their ID.

 

The Guesthouse has single and double rooms. Some rooms have shared bathrooms. Please note that places are limited and will be given in the order in which requests are received.

Practical Information

Arrival: Cagliari Elmas Airport (CAG)

Accommodation: arranged independently by participants

Transport: CTM public transport system

Emergency number: 112

Coordinator: 

Prof. Myosotis Massidda,

Dept. of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari

Organizing board:

Prof. Filippo Tocco and Prof. Maria Giovanna Ghiani,

Dept. of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari

Dr Stefania Melas and Dr Francesca Mulas

International Relations Office, University of Cagliari

Dr Maria Vincenza Zonca

Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Cagliari

 

 

 

Important Note

The Erasmus+ BIP “Active Sport Tourism” is presented as a Pre-USSIC Educational Event.
It is an educational initiative distinct from the official USSIC 2026 scientific programme, contributing to the broader educational and experiential ecosystem of the Conference.

ACADEMIC PARTNERS